In a nutshell
- If you’re spending more than a weekend in Barcelona, it’s absolutely worth heading out to explore the stunning surroundings.
- Our top pick is a day trip to Montserrat — the mountains and monastery are seriously spectacular and make a perfect escape from the city buzz.
- On a guided day trip from Barcelona, your guide handles all the planning and shares insider knowledge you won’t find in any guidebook.
- Here are our 5 absolute favorite day trips near Barcelona — tried, tested, and genuinely worth your time.
Montserrat Day Trip
- Duration: 5, 7, or 9 hours
- Travel time: approx. 1 hour to the monastery
- Transportation: air-conditioned bus
What you’ll see: the dramatic mountain landscape of Montserrat — Catalonia’s most famous mountain range — and the mountain monastery of Santa Maria de Montserrat. The monastery has several highlights you can book as optional add-ons, including the Montserrat Museum. If you’ve booked a full-day tour, you’ll also visit a winery afterward.
What you need to know: You have a choice of three tours. Option 1 is a 5-hour half-day tour without a winery visit. Option 2 is a 7-hour full-day tour with tapas and wine tasting. Option 3 is a 9-hour full-day tour with a multi-course lunch and wine tasting. All tours are conducted in English.
Is it worth it? Absolutely! Montserrat is the ultimate day trip from Barcelona. The mountains and the monastery perched among them are seriously breathtaking — and a winery visit rounds out the experience perfectly.
The Most Beautiful Places on the Costa Brava
- Duration: 10 hours
- Travel time: approx. 1 hour to Girona
- Transportation: air-conditioned van
What you’ll see: The first stop on this Barcelona excursion is Girona, the largest city on the Costa Brava. From there, you’ll continue on to the medieval village of Pals and the charming fishing village of Calella de Palafrugell.
What you need to know: In Calella de Palafrugell, you’ll have the chance to take a swim. Pack your swimsuit and a beach towel if you want to cool off in the sea. The tour runs in English throughout.
Is it worth it? Totally. You’ll cover some of the most beautiful spots on the Costa Brava in a single day, with a knowledgeable guide sharing insider tips the whole way.
Book the full-day tour to Girona and the Costa Brava villages
Kayaking and Snorkeling Tour on the Costa Brava
- Duration: 6 hours
- Travel time: approx. 1 hour
- Transportation: air-conditioned bus
What to expect: You’ll spot colorful fish while snorkeling and explore sea caves and hidden bays along the Costa Brava by kayak. To wind things down, there’s a relaxed picnic on the beach at the end.
What you need to know: Snorkeling gear is provided on-site. Just bring your own towel, swimwear, and sunscreen. The tour is conducted in English.
Is it worth it? If you’ve had your fill of sightseeing in Barcelona and want to get active outdoors, this is the perfect pick. It’s also great for beginners — no prior kayaking or snorkeling experience needed.
Book the kayaking and snorkeling tour on the Costa Brava
Vineyards and wineries in Penedès
- Duration: 6 hours
- Travel time: 1 hour
- Transportation: air-conditioned minibus
What to expect: a day trip from Barcelona to two internationally renowned family-owned wineries in the Penedès region. You’ll get guided tours of the wineries, ride through a 2,000-year-old vineyard in an off-road vehicle, and taste excellent wine and cava — plus typical local snacks along the way.
What you need to know: The tour is conducted in English. Minimum age for participation is 16.
Is it worth it? If you want more than a classic city tour in Barcelona, this excursion delivers something really special. You’ll get an authentic look into Catalonia’s wine culture and come away knowing a ton about the region’s wine-growing history.
Book the Penedès winery day trip with tastings
In the Footsteps of Salvador Dalí
- Duration: 11 hours
- Travel time: approx. 1.5 hours
- Transportation: air-conditioned minibus
What you’ll see: This tour traces the life and world of iconic painter Salvador Dalí, taking in places that shaped him most. Highlights include his birthplace Figueres with the legendary Dalí Museum — one of the top must-sees on the Costa Brava — as well as the coastal villages of Cadaqués and Port Lligat, which inspired so much of his work.
What you need to know: The exact highlights covered depend on the season — check the tour description for full details. The tour is conducted in English.
Is it worth it? For Dalí fans, this Barcelona day trip is a genuine must. You’ll dive deep into his art, his personal life, and his favorite corners of the Costa Brava. Seriously fascinating stuff.
